A hearty and flavorful tomato chickpea stew, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking to avoid burning the ingredients.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Stir in the oregano, paprika, and salt, cooking for an additional minute to release the spices' aroma.
Toast the spices briefly to enhance their flavor.
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
Cooking the tomato paste intensifies its flavor.
Add the diced tomatoes and chickpeas, then bring the mixture to a boil.
Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Reduce the heat and let the stew simmer until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
Add the spinach at the end to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Pair with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal.